Taking diabetes on tour and to the people

About a year ago I saw a big red bus in a Wal-Mart parking lot. I am sure most of you have seen them at hospitals and supermarkets; they are all over the place. These buses are a quick and easy place for people to donate their blood.

I was immediately struck by the simplicity of the bus idea, why could we not do the same for diabetes?

I had been looking for something that could inspire and help spread the word to the masses about diabetes

I had been looking for something that could inspire and help spread the word to the masses about diabetes and this idea seemed to be the way to fulfil my vision.

Originally, I was hoping to spend a month at a time going to major grocery stores, schools and conventions. I soon realized the work and support I needed was very intensive and I would need help.

I knew lives could be saved and changed. I tried to get some sponsors for the tour and while we got great feedback, I came up against hurdles. For a while the tour took a back seat whilst I continued to focus on my film ‘The Diabetic You’ and speaking commitments. However I never lost sight of my tour dream and eight months later my idea finally got the backing it needed.

We have been on the road for about a month now and I must say this is truly a dream come true. I will continue to update you on this journey and how lives have been changed. I will also speak about things I would love to change about diabetes, the lack of education and information around the disease, the lack of public understanding which stigmatizes diabetes.

I want people with diabetes to know that there are so many basic things you can do, to lead a healthier life.

Finally, I want the diabetes community and the general public to become more unified in the face of this public health threat.

Ideally this bus tour for diabetes should become as instantly recognizable as that big red bus! More to come, as we head to Atlanta….